The archipelago of Hong Kong enjoys a humid, sub-tropical climate, with four seasons ranging from cool by local standards to steamy, hot, and humid. The islands are located on the typhoon belt, although Victoria Harbour protects ships and small boats from the worst weather from the seasonal storms.
Winter temperatures hover between 59°F to 68°F, with the northeast monsoon rains ushering in cold fronts and causing drops in temperature around 50°F. In compensation, warm fronts from the ocean raise winter lows around 70°F on occasion, with February highs occasionally spiking to 84°F. December and January are sunny, although cloudy skies prominent by February.
As spring advances, rainfall and humidity increase, with sunshine hours in March and April dwindling. Summer is the most unstable season, with thunderstorms and rain showers, and soaring temperatures of 90°F or more. Continuous sunshine and a lack of ocean breezes send the heat index through the roof, with the likelihood of typhoons increasing as the dog days of summer wear on.
Fall is the most comfortable season temperature-wise and is generally free of extreme weather, with averages around 78°F and far less humidity and rainy. It’s also the sunniest of all the seasons, with October through November averaging 200 hours of sunshine each month.
Best Time to Visit Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, the best time to visit depends on the style of your vacation. If hiking, walking, or trekking, fall is perfect for its low rainfall, comfortable temperature, and high sunshine ratio. For a combination of beach, shopping, and nightlife, summer is fine as long as you’re cooling off by the sea or in the air-conditioned malls. Late summer is best to be avoided as it’s the heart of typhoon season. Spring is a beautiful season, with the temperature rising, little humidity, and the islands alive with flowers. Hotel rates tend to stay relatively stable, although they go up during festive season and Chinese New Year.